The Soul of an Indian: And Other Writings from Ohiyesa (Charles Alexander Eastman)

Very profound words of wisdom written over 100 years ago. An excellent read and reference to timeless knowledge that crosses over all cultures. I would recommend this book for one's private library or for a great gift.

If one wants to know what it is "really" like to have the problems of a drug addict, one doesn't ask the therapist (sorry), but rather the addict. Only a true Native American can explain the life, in its many aspects, of a Native American----and, although we have many examples of the wisdom of Native American chiefs, few attain the level, from a philosophical/religious view, as does Ohiyesa (C. Eastman). He is truly a poet in the simplicity of the words he uses, while simultaneously imparting a veritable glimpse of the meaning behind his words. For this reason alone, he, I believe, will be time-honored, when one wants to get a view of Native American life in the future. Sadly, but perhaps necessarily, Ohiyesa was torn between two worlds---the white (education and profession, as well as residence in the East) and his heritage, which he felt bound to,as the atrocities continued to unfold in his lifetime, some of which he experienced firsthand. For persons of "a certain ilk", I believe that the many people who respect the wisdom of "The Prophet" (Khalil Gibran)will equally respect this writing.

The presentation of the indians life and purpose will challenge a persons prespectives of life and the purpose to which all of us have been called. Do you live a life of love or are we so drawn to the material and success orientations of this world that we have lost perspective of the real purpose of life? Ohiyesa will challenge each of us to look into yourselves and ask the question do I truly care for what is right or are my values based upon what I have acquired. Do I walk in truth or do I live a lie? Do I care for my neighbor or do I only think of myself? Do I see God in what has been created or do I deny His existence? Ohiyesa, will challenge the very foundations of western society and our ways of thinking. He challenges the christian and the church as presented in our society today. Do we live as Christ, or do we use Christ to obtain control? I found this book a great treasure of clear thinking and profound statements that make me question the values that I have what of you?